Question 1

What can a Clinical Psychologist do?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy, sometimes used interchangeably with 'counselling', helps us resolve difficult emotions, reactions, self-sabotaging patterns, or adjust to challenging circumstances.

A clinical psychologist does so as a scientist-practitioner after more than half a decade of training. This allows them assess the science behind various conditions, research on treatment effectiveness, and their usefulness under different circumstances.

Biological, psychological, and social-environmental factors are considered in conceptualising each person's needs. This allows clinical psychologists to provide multidisciplinary care together with various medical and allied health professionals. In other words, a clinical psychologist's training promotes holistic care that best meets a person's needs.

Question 2

What does progress look like?

Accepted Answer

Progress occurs through one or more of the following changes:
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 • Better self-understanding and emotional resolution​
 • Clarity about life directions and decisions
 • Improved emotional reactions to stressors or triggers
 • Positive changes in behaviour
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This works best when you're willing to explore your own thoughts and feelings and try new things. Regular attendance is also important. In general, weekly sessions are recommended unless we need time between sessions for a specific clinical reason.

Question 3

What if I'm not ready to talk about something?

Accepted Answer

We will approach your difficulties in a safe and incremental manner. It may feel somewhat challenging at times, but not overwhelming.

You will never be forced to discuss or do anything against your will. In fact, your feedback is important for optimising the form and pace of therapy. Your feedback is hence most welcome.

Question 4

What if I can't take leave from work?

Accepted Answer

As an adult-focused psychologist, I understand that you have commitments at home and at work. This is why I have several consultation sessions after office hours, including on Saturdays. I have also seen clients internationally and found a mutually suitable time for us to meet online across timezones. Feel free to discuss your schedule with me.

Question 5

What's happens in a psychological assessment?

Accepted Answer

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Psychological assessments are helpful for determining if certain conditions are presenth as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. It can also clarify complex or multifaceted symptom profiles, especially when mental and physical heath intersect.

Information is acquired from interviews with you (and sometimes another person who knows you well), psychometrically validated questionnaires, cognitive assessment batteries, or other medical or allied health reports. The information is triangulated across sources to arrive at a clinical conclusion.
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Assessments clarify difficulties, unmet needs, and ways to improve our quality of life. "Closure" is commonly felt when people finally know what they're facing and how to manage it constructively. It is a therapeutic process, as the child's drawing shows. I currently conduct assessments for adults.

Senior Clinical Psychologist Registered Psychologist (Singapore)

Senior Clinical Psychologist
Registered Psychologist (Singapore)